This bill proposes to amend the Arizona Revised Statutes by adding a new section, 46-232, which establishes the emergency food assistance fund. This fund will consist of legislative appropriations and will be administered by the department. The bill specifies that the funds will be continuously appropriated and exempt from lapsing provisions, ensuring that the resources remain available for use.

The bill outlines the conditions under which the department can utilize the fund, specifically during federal government shutdowns or when federal funding for the supplemental nutrition assistance program is unavailable. It allows for the provision of temporary food vouchers and grants to food banks and community organizations to enhance emergency food distribution efforts. Additionally, it appropriates $5,000,000 from the state general fund for the fiscal year 2026-2027 to support the newly established fund.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 46-232